Support (pass used): Player makes off-the-ball movement to a position to receive a pass when the player’s team has possession.

Guard or mark: Player defends against an opponent who may or may not have the ball.

Tim Hopper, School of Physical Education

University of Victoria

Email: thopper@uvic.ca

NET/WALL GAME:

BALLOONMINTON

Object

Hit a balloon back and forth across the line until one player is unable to reach the balloon in time, and it touches the ground

Equipment

Balloons, or beach balls

How to Play

Players begin by facing each other on opposite sides of the line. One player “serves” the balloon across the line to the other player. When the balloon is served, it must cross the line at waist height or higher; if it does not, player serves the balloon again. The play continues until the balloon touches the ground. This counts as a point for the opposing side.

Variations

• Cross-legged Balloonminton

Begin by defining a small playing surface with ability appropriate sidelines. Players sit cross-legged on the floor and hit a balloon back and forth over the line. Players must stay seated, and can only move their upper body.

• Doubles Balloonminton

- Two players per side

- Play with a net at badminton-level height

- Variations: Increase the number of players per side.

Could be done cooperatively with a continuous rally of the balloon.

Think About…

A moving opponent

MainTacticalLevel ofSkill Focus

FocusComplexity

Manipulation Looking for the Moderate (Sending Away) Open Space on the Opponent’s Side